Exploring Electricity in the Design Engineering Studio
Grade 6 students are learning about electricity with a hands-on project in RSGC’s new Design Engineering Studio.
The unit focuses on developing an understanding of electricity and several related concepts, such as voltage, amperage and resistance. Using a hands-on project-based approach, the unit introduces students to series and parallel circuits, using digital multi-meters, and wiring terminology, and offer the chance to practice electrical skills such as wire strip- ping, soldering, drilling and cutting.
From January to March, students will develop a wearable illumination device that demonstrates these concepts, and document the process through status reports and a final presentation. Classes include both theoretical and hands-on learning, and are led by Junior School science teacher Brian Robinson, Head of Computer Science and DES coordinator Chris D'Arcy and Senior School students.
Last year’s project required the Grade 6 class to figure out how to design and make a flashlight, using one of three different designs, 16 LEDs, one switch and limited batteries.
According to Chris, this unit provides the perfect opportunity for the students to experience the DES, work with Senior School students, and do hands-on learning activities that apply their knowledge. “It’s an exciting opportunity because it helps make their learning more meaningful and gives them some- thing tangible to take home,” he says. “They also get the chance to see what is possible if they continue their studies in science and engineering.”
“Overall, the boys love this project,” said Brian. “It’s really challenging and they have to push them- selves, but more often than not, they realize they know more and can learn more than they imagined they could.”
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Royal St. George's College is an independent school for boys located in The Annex neighbourhood of Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The school admits boys from Grades 3 through 12. Our mission is to challenge and inspire each of our students to become the best version of himself.